Patna: The Bihar Transport Department is planning a major technological upgrade in government buses by introducing artificial intelligence (AI)-based face detection systems to monitor passengers, improve safety and strengthen revenue collection.
Under the proposed arrangement, a face detection device will be installed near the main entrance of every government bus. The AI-powered system will automatically identify and count passengers as they board, allowing transport authorities to maintain accurate records of ridership and passenger movement.
AI System to Be Linked With Central Control Room
According to officials, the face detection devices will be connected to a central control room for real-time monitoring. The department believes the technology will improve surveillance inside buses and help authorities track passenger activity more effectively.
Officials say the initiative is expected to make public transport safer while also improving operational efficiency across the state’s bus network.
Ticketless Travel Behind Revenue Losses
The move follows a departmental review that found increasing complaints related to passenger disputes and ticketless travel. Despite heavy passenger traffic on several routes, the department has reportedly been facing revenue losses due to passengers travelling without valid tickets.
Transport officials believe the AI-based system will help identify discrepancies between passenger counts and ticket sales, making it more difficult for commuters to travel without purchasing tickets.
LED Screens to Enable Live Monitoring
In another significant step, the department is also planning to install LED television screens inside buses. The screens will display live footage from onboard monitoring systems, allowing passengers and authorities to keep track of activities inside the vehicle.
Officials say the feature could help quickly detect incidents such as theft, harassment or other disruptive behaviour, enabling faster intervention when necessary.
Statewide Rollout Planned
Transport Department Secretary Raj Kumar said the new technology would make passenger identification and counting significantly easier. He added that the department intends to implement the system across all government buses in Bihar in the near future.
